NEW YORK
Firefighters are on the scene of a massive explosion in downtown New York on Thursday, with two buildings partially collapsed and engulfed in flames, authorities said.
The midafternoon explosion occurred at a dual-use structure – used for commercial and residential tenants – in the East Village neighborhood.
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said at least 12 people were injured in the blast with three in critical condition.
Preliminary evidence suggests the explosion was triggered by plumbing and gas work that was being done inside one of the buildings, he said.
A total of four buildings were affected by the blast.
Authorities evacuated the area, which is close to New York University, and closed surrounding streets.
Eight people were killed last March in New York's East Harlem neighborhood when a gas explosion leveled two buildings.
